England, Australia fined for poor over rates, docked WTC points

Ashes rivals England and Australia were fined for slow over rates during the first Test that concluded yesterday and docked two points each in the World Test Championship. 

The players from both sides were also fined 40 percent of their match fees.

Andy Pycroft of the ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees imposed the sanctions after both teams were ruled to be two overs short of their targets after time allowances were taken into consideration.

Australia captain Pat Cummins and England counterpart Ben Stokes accepted the sanctions, meaning there was no need for formal hearings.

The sanctions see Australia lose two World Test Championship points, leaving Cummins' side with a total of 10 points after their first Test of the new cycle.

England are also deducted two points, meaning they are behind all eight of their rivals in the 2023-25 World Test Championship cycle. (ICC)